51 courses with the subject WFS, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
The objectives of this first-year seminar course are to: (1) Engage and prepare first-year college students for academic success by orienting them to the scholarly community and introducing them to available academic resources. (2) Introduce students to Pennsylvania's forests and some of the research and other activities currently underway at
3 Quantification Courses These courses have been approved as General Education Quantification courses. This course list is updated periodically. Descriptions and 4 learning criteria for General Education Quantification courses can be 4 found in the Foundation and Knowledge Domains section (p. 3373). Code Title Credits
/Maximum of 18 Creative projects, including research and design, that are supervised on an individual basis and that fall outside the scope of formal courses.
/Maximum of 9 Formal courses given infrequently to explore, in depth, a comparatively narrow subject which may be topical or of special interest.
/Maximum of 12 Courses offered in foreign countries by individual or group instruction.
Overview of the evolution, systematics, ecology, and behavior of the subphylum vertebrata. W F S 300 The Vertebrates (2) The purpose of this course is to introduce students to vertebrate zoology and will Undergraduate - The Pennsylvania State University 2026-2027 4937 include overviews of vertebrate evolution, systematics, anatomy, physiology, ecology, and behavior. The course will begin by introducing er the phylum Chordata. The cephalochordata, amphioxus (Branchiostoma lanceolatum), will be discussed and used as a model of a prevertebrate. The basic organization and theories of vertebrate evolution will be reviewed. The superclasses, Agnatha and Gnathostomata, will be introduced. The origin of each of the major group of vertebrates will be traced. The general approach will be phylogenetic and include discussions of the major changes associated with each group's evolution and selected elements of their extant diversity and biology. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110
W F S 301 Vertebrate Laboratory (2) The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the anatomy of the vertebrates and to expose students to the diversity of vertebrates that reside in Pennsylvania. Students will dissect and learn the anatomy of the dogfish, frog, and cat or mink. Additional laboratory periods will concentrate on collecting/ observing, and identifying fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Museum curation techniques will be taught, and students will be required to construct dichotomous keys to specimens that inhabit Pennsylvania. The identification part of the course is meant to introduce students to representatives of the taxa that occur within the Commonwealth in preparation for higher-level courses in ichthyology, herpetology, ornithology, or mammalogy. Collection techniques will emphasize the proper collection and preservation of organisms for natural history museums. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: BIOL 110 and (WFS 209 or WILDL 101)
Wildlife and Fisheries Measurements will introduce students to basic measurements used to describe fish and wildlife populations and their habitats. Laboratory exercises will stress sampling approaches and implementation, common techniques for collecting information about amphibians, fish, birds, and mammals and their respective habitats, mapping and orienteering, and methods for summarizing and reporting findings. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: BIOL 110 and (WFS 209 or WILDL 101) and (STAT 200 or STAT 240 or STAT 250)
Statistics for Conservation of Wild Populations provides an overview of the statistical techniques used by wildlife and fisheries biologists to research wild animal populations and guide management and conservation. Wildlife and fisheries researchers use many approaches that are not taught in general statistics classes, because they deal with wild populations that cannot be censused, randomly sampled, or consistently resampled. We will cover methods used to estimate animal abundance, survival, occupancy, and habitat use, as well as how we can test hypotheses about individual, temporal, and spatial variation. Students will learn how to implement these methods using standard statistical software (such as program R and MARK), how to determine
3 or WFS 409 Mammalogy Laboratory Select 2-3 credits of the following: 2-3
Introduction to the biology, ecology, adaptations, and conservation of birds. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110
Supporting Courses and Related Areas Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification Select two courses (6-8 credits) in environmental law, economics, 6-8 op management and policy (e.g., ECON 428, ERM 411, ERM 412, ERM 413W, WFS 410, WFS 447W, WFS 463W) Select 4 credits of an environmentally related course in Science 4 Technology and Society (e.g., STS 100, STS 460) Select at least 14 credits from the cohort Teaching option 14 This option may only be completed in conjunction with another secondary teaching option, such as the Biological Science Teaching option. Note 1: Students may complete multiple science teaching options concurrently by completing all of each option's requirements. The six science teaching options are: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, General Science, and Physics. Note 2: Red Cross certification in First Aid and CPR (or their equivalent) must be earned for science certification. General Science Teaching Option (38-39 credits) Available at the following campuses: University Park Credits Code Title Credits
W F S 409 Mammalogy Laboratory (2) Mammalogy Laboratory provides the necessary skills for identifying North American mammals. Taken concurrently with or after completing the mammalogy lecture course, this laboratory and field course is open to students with some background in wildlife. The objectives of this course are for students to 1) identify North American mammals by skulls and skins, 2) identify eastern North American mammals by tracks in the field, 3) capture and measure small mammals, and 4) gain an understanding of the characteristic behavior and ecology of North American mammals. Fields skills include animal handling, tracking, and observation. Additional skills may include skin and skull preparation and museum techniques for the care of mammals. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: WFS 408
Introduction to the study, management, and uses of fish populations; methods of investigation, culture, and harvest of fishes. Enforced Concurrent at Enrollment: BIOL 110 or WFS 209 or WILDL 101
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the life histories, ecology and importance of macroinvertebrates in freshwater aquatic ecosystems. Special attention will be given to taxonomy and diversity, the role of aquatic invertebrates in food webs, the implications of non-indigenous invertebrates on native aquatic environments and the use of macroinvertebrates in aquatic biomonitoring. The primary focus will be on aquatic insects, although other key aquatic invertebrates will also be included. The laboratory component of the course will involve learning to identify major groups of aquatic macroinvertebrates and is designed to provide students with skills in invertebrate sampling and identification, including the use of dichotomous keys. Field trips will include sampling several local aquatic habitats, and students will be required to develop a curated scientific collection of aquatic invertebrates during the semester. The course will provide training towards certification for the Society for Freshwater Science's aquatic invertebrate Taxonomic Certification Program (https:// freshwater-science.org/about/taxonomic-certification). Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110
The application of biological principles to issues in the conservation of biodiversity. FOR (W F S) 430 Conservation Biology (3) This course applies basic principles of ecology and genetics to issues regarding the conservation forested ecosystems and their associated fisheries and wildlife. The objective of this course is to provide a broad appreciation of the concepts in conservation biology that are important to solving contemporary natural resources problems. Students will be exposed to the history of conservation biology, values of biodiversity, definitions of species concepts, protecting the genetic structure of species, extinction as a natural process, vulnerability to extinction, biodiversity at the community, ecosystem, and landscape levels, habitat fragmentation, metapopulations, legal aspects of conservation, ecosystem management, exotic species, pollution, human population issues, measuring genetic diversity, attitudes towards nature, ex-situ conservation, and ecosystem restoration. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 220W or FOR 308 or WFS 209 Cross-listed with: FOR 430
This course will provide a comprehensive overview of evolution and conservation genetics, an interdisciplinary science that focuses on understanding the processes that influence genetic diversity at the individual and population levels. Foundational concepts in evolutionary ecology, population, and quantitative genetics, and tools described therein will be applied to conservation design, management, and restoration strategies for species of conservation or commercial importance to address real-world challenges in conservation science. This course will cover issues including inbreeding, climate change, invasive species, conservation of threatened and endangered species, adaptation and climate change, and habitat restoration using examples from a broad range of biological systems. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110 Cross-listed with: FOR 431
Biogeochemistry and natural history of freshwater ecosystems. W F S (E R M) 435 Limnology (3)This course will define and describe major principles (physical, chemical, biological, and ecological) that govern the structure and function of freshwater ecosystems (ponds, lakes, and rivers). Current scientific literature will be critically reviewed and discussed in relation to comparative philosophy, methodology, and case studies that cover a range of topics in limnology. The objectives of E R M (W F S) 435 are to familiarize students with the major physical properties, chemical cycles, taxonomic groups of organisms, and ecological interactions that define and describe the natural function of aquatic ecosystems. The course will use case studies to illustrate and examine pertinent issues (e.g., excessive material loading, introduction to exotic species, habitat fragmentation, and climate change) that can alter the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems. Knowledge of these basic ecosystem principles will be applied towards formulating real-life resolutions to the issues identified in class, in order to better manage aquatic resources (methods to reduce material loads, transport controls of exotic species, habitat restoration, and reduction of global gases). This course will be useful to both undergraduate and graduate students seeking degrees in Environmental Resource Management, Wildlife and Fisheries Science, Ecology, and other related subjects. At the undergraduate level, the course will serve as a 400-level selection in both the Environmental Resource Management and Wildlife and Fisheries Science degree programs. At the graduate level, the course will compliment several Wildlife and Fisheries courses that form the compliment of that degree program. Moreover, the course can satisfy the course requirement for ecosystems ecology in the inter-college Ecology graduate program and serve as a breadth course in Water Resources for graduate students in the Watershed Stewardship program. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110 and BIOL 220W and CHEM 110 Cross-listed with: ERM 435
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
BIOL 110 is a prerequisite for ANSC 211. ANSC 100 is a prerequisite for ANSC 311. ANSC 211, ANSC 311 and MICRB 106 & MICRB 107 or MICRB 201 & MICRB 202 are prerequisites for ANSC 425/VBSC 425. ANSC 395 and ANSC 496 must have a poultry or avian biology emphasis.
Wetlands are unique ecosystems, differing in many ways from both terrestrial and aquatic environments. The study of wetlands is interdisciplinary, requiring background knowledge in science, management and policy disciplines. This course will explore the variety of wetland types and classification schemes, and emphasize the diverse hydrological, biological, chemical, and physical interactions that occur within wetlands. They provide recognized ecosystem services and values to society, so issues surrounding wetland management, regulation, climate change impacts, and sustainability will be addressed. Topics will also include the restoration of degraded wetlands and wetland creation, along with the construction of wetlands for pollution abatement. Students will also develop an understanding of important international, national and state policies and regulations pertaining to wetlands and their protection and delineation. Opportunities for professional certification in wetland science will also be discussed. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: (ERM 300 or WFS 209N or BE 307) and seventh semester standing or higher Cross-listed with: ERM 450
Ichthyology is the study of fishes, the largest and most diverse group of vertebrate animals. This course covers a wide range of topics including systematics, classification, morphology, physiology, behavior, and ecology of fishes. Students will learn the characteristics and natural history of the major groups of fishes and consider conservation and management implications. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110
Students may also wish to transfer 6 credits of field-oriented course work from another institution with prior approval of the chair of the Marine Sciences minor. Students may select METEO 496 with consent of instructor and Marine Sciences minor.
Field Ichthyology is designed familiarize students with collection, observation, and field identification of Pennsylvania's fish fauna. Students will get hands-on instruction on how to collect, preserve, catalog, curate, and observe fishes. Additionally, students will learn how to gather pertinent in situ behavioral and distribution information on fishes and how to manage, record, and store field data. With the increasing emphasis on biodiversity and environmental monitoring, students need to be able to collect, manage, and store data as well as secure the chain of custody. This course is offered annually in partnership with agencies, research centers, and universities within Pennsylvania. Classes begin Sunday evening and extend until Friday afternoon. After the three-hour introductory class on Sunday evening, students meet each day for field collections/observations from 8am-5pm (weather dependent). In the evenings, students reassemble in the laboratory for additional activities and lectures. On one day, a series of night collections is made that extends until midnight. Students are responsible for their motel and food expenses during the week. All transportation to and from the collection sites is provided. The class will meet at least four times by appointment during the fall semester to enable students to process preserved samples that they collected. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110
Scholarly discussion and critique of history, concepts, and application of wildlife behavioral concepts to conservation issues. The course will give an in-depth coverage of concepts related to an understanding of wildlife behavior. Particular focus will be given to a discussion, critique, and development of these concepts and their application to contemporary issues in conservation and natural resource management of wildlife because there is a general lack of understanding of behavior b conservationists and natural resource managers. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110
Understanding animal welfare and well-being in farmed, wild and captive animals, and the implications for policy, legislation and conservation. Whether we interact with farmed animals, wild animals in natural settings, or captive reared wild animals bred for research or for re- introductions, there is a growing interest in their welfare. What do animals need to manifest good welfare and well-being? To find answers we need to devise experiments that determine what animals want and what they find aversive. This allows us to find ways to decrease fear and stress associated with handling and captivity. This course covers the practical issues of animal welfare; animal ethics in wildlife management, conservation, and agriculture; and the use of animals in research. The course provides a framework with which to consider philosophical positions on animal use (covering aspects such as rights- based views versus utilitarian views) and the history of ethical debate over the interactions that humans have with other species. The course also addresses the current social, economic, and legal developments related to animal welfare and animal ethics. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: BIOL 110
This course explores the evolution, ecology, and conservation of amphibians and reptiles. This course is open to all students with some background in biology. The objectives of this course are for students to 1) describe the evolution, anatomy, reproduction, and physiology of amphibians and reptiles, 2) place contemporary research in the context of the natural history traits and behavioral ecology of herps, and 3) critically evaluate the application of these concepts to natural resource management for salamander, frog, turtle, lizard, and snake species and populations. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: 5th Semester standing or higher and 6 credits of BIOL
Management of sport and commercial fisheries, including biological, political, social, and economic factors; regulations and other management techniques. W F S 463W Fishery Management (3) This course will introduce students to the management of recreational and commercial fisheries. The course emphasizes fishery management as a goal-oriented process that adapts over time to changes in fish populations and societal goals. Students will learn to recognize and understand that ecological, economic, political, and social forces shape this management process. Major methods of fisheries management involving people, population, and habitat management will be surveyed. Case studies highlighting the application of these management strategies to current fishery management are explored. Writing reports and management plans is emphasized. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: WFS 209 and WFS 300 and WFS 301 and WFS 310 y Writing Across the Curriculum
Restoration ecology is a discipline that integrates principles from ecology, engineering, landscape architecture, economics and other select social sciences to repair ecosystems that have been degraded, damaged, or destroyed. The goal of restoration is to restore the structure of biological communities and the ecological functions and ecosystem
/Maximum of 3 The Supervised Experience in College Teaching course provides select undergraduate students with formal, supervised teaching experience in a Wildlife and Fisheries Science course. Faculty recruit students who excel in a particular course to serve as undergraduate teaching assistants for subsequent offerings of that course. Duties may include serving as peer tutors, teaching assistants, or laboratory assistants, and developing and/or evaluating course activities and materials. Students participating in this course will develop a deeper understanding of the focus course material by actively helping teach the material. The course is only available to students who are invited to serve as teaching assistants for a Wildlife and Fisheries Science course and enrollment is by permission of the instructor. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: Permission of program
/Maximum of 999 Supervised student activities on research projects identified on an individual or small group basis. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: Permission of the Wildlife and
/Maximum of 999 Supervised student activities on research projects identified on an individual or small group basis Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: Permission of the Wildlife and Fisheries Science honors adviser, Schreyer Honors College
/Maximum of 6 Supervised field experience related to the student's major. Enforced Prerequisite at Enrollment: Approval of proposed assignment by instructor prior to registration
/Maximum of 18 Creative projects, including research and design, which are supervised on an individual basis and which fall outside the scope of formal courses.
/Maximum of 9 Formal courses given infrequently to explore, in depth, a comparatively narrow subject which may be topical or of special interest.
/Maximum of 12 Courses offered in foreign countries by individual or group instruction.
Scholarly discussion and critique of skills important to professionalism of students in natural resources, wood products, and related science-
Application of the scientific method and general principles of designing ecological field studies through discussion and critique of the primary literature.
Principles and methods of classification, phylogeny, and speciation; taxonomic techniques; analysis of species; causal interpretation of animal diversity.
Detailed study of the systematics, evolution, identification, and natural history of fishes.
Application of statistical models to estimating population parameters to test ecological theories. W F S 560 Population Estimation and Modeling (4)The purpose of this course is to impart a working knowledge of statistical methods for estimating fish and wildlife populations. Primary emphasis will be on methods of estimating population size, survival rates, and birth rates as they relate to testing hypotheses about population dynamics. Most of the course will focus on mark-recapture models for both open and closed populations, but other methods such as distance sampling and removal models that do not require marked animals will be studied.
/Maximum of 999 Students will develop skills in understanding and processing complex datasets while learning traditional and innovative methods for spatial data analysis. The purpose of this course is to assist researchers on methods for data management and analysis using a state-of-the-art statistical program after data has been collected in the field or for designing field experiments. The course focuses on wildlife/fisheries research, both basic and applied, that rely on large ecological datasets that provide unique opportunities to explicitly incorporate sources of spatial and temporal variability into understanding motivations for an organism's movements, resource selection, subpopulation structuring, or presence in a landscape. The impetus behind this course and resulting manual was to import data from spreadsheet software, import Geographical Information Systems (GIS) layers, and conduct statistical analysis of datasets all in a single software platform. In the past several decades, advancements in data acquisition have resulted in datasets often with thousands of records. Concurrent with these advancements in acquisition, methods of handling and manipulating large datasets, GIS capabilities, and methods of estimators for home range, movements, resource selection, and spatial epidemiology have increased dramatically.
/Maximum of 3 Continuing seminars which consist of a series of individual lectures by faculty, students, or outside speakers. Cross-listed with: FOR 590, SOILS 590
/Maximum of 9 Creative projects, including nonthesis research, which are supervised on an individual basis and which fall outside the scope of formal courses.
/Maximum of 9 Formal courses given on a topical or special interest subject which may be offered infrequently.
/Maximum of 999 No description.
0 Credits/Maximum of 999 No description.
/Maximum of 6 Provides an opportunity for supervised and graded teaching experience in wildlife courses.
/Maximum of 999 No description.
0 Credits/Maximum of 999 No Description.
Source: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 59
